▲ On the morning of August 18, 2014, at a ‘Mass for Peace and Reconciliation’ held at Myeongdong Cathedral in Seoul, actor Ahn Sung-ki is seen reading the first scripture.
The news of actor Ahn Sung-ki’s passing has brought deep condolences from Archbishop Jeong Sun-taek of the Seoul Archdiocese of the Catholic Church.
Archbishop Jeong expressed today (the 5th) his deep sorrow and condolences upon hearing the news of the passing of the late Ahn Sung-ki John, who for many years touched our society profoundly as the ‘nation’s actor.’
Archbishop Jeong described the deceased as “an artist who left a distinct mark in the history of Korean cinema, delivering hope, comfort, and warm happiness to the public through his acting.” He added that “his genuine presence in his works will remain in the hearts of many across generations and times, shedding a bright light on our society.”
He continued, “Actor Ahn Sung-ki was a devout Catholic who cared for his neighbors and never lost his warm gaze towards the underprivileged, bringing hope to a world of living together through donations and good deeds. His actions became a valuable example for many.”
Archbishop Jeong also stated, “We will long remember the honesty and goodness that the actor left behind through his films and life,” extending deep comfort and solidarity to the family and all those who loved the actor.
Ahn Sung-ki, who passed away today at the age of 74, was a devout Catholic with the baptismal name John. In 2014, during Pope Francis’ visit to Korea, he read the scripture at a mass officiated by the Pope at Myeongdong Cathedral.
(Photo = Yonhap News)